NHL Weekend Rumors: Could Tkachuk or McDavid Be in Play?

In this week’s NHL Trade Talk weekend rumors report, the Ottawa Senators are facing key decisions in net and possibly with their captain, while the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to be linked to Mats Sundin in a significant executive role. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks are casting a wide net in their search for new leadership. Finally, the Edmonton Oilers were an early exit from the playoffs. What’s next for their team and Connor McDavid?

Here’s a breakdown of the biggest rumors making waves right now.

Senators Facing Big Decisions in Net and with Tkachuk

The Senators appear to be a team to watch this offseason. According to reports, goaltender Mads Sogaard is not expected to return, as he heads toward unrestricted free agency on July 1. That leaves Ottawa with a question mark in goal, and potentially a need to explore external options.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen pondered what might happen with Linus Ullmark, who has three years left…and has been under the microscope. Does he want to come back to Ottawa? You have to wonder if the Senators will at least explore the trade market.

Even more intriguing, however, are the ongoing whispers surrounding captain Brady Tkachuk. While insiders like Elliotte Friedman suggest the team has no intention of moving him unless absolutely forced, others believe conversations could still take place this summer. Tkachuk holds significant control over his future with a no-move clause, and he told the media this past week that the continued rumors about him being traded or wanting out have become a distraction and quite frustrating.

Maple Leafs Eye Mats Sundin and John Chayka

Change is coming in a big way for the Maple Leafs. Reports are everywhere that the organization is waiting on Mats Sundin to accept a significant role with the team, and if he does, that the hiring of John Chayka as GM will follow. Fans and analysts aren’t thrilled about the idea that Chayka is going to be the man, especially given his exit from the Arizona Coyotes and the NHL. His run was memorable, but for the wrong reasons.

Canucks Cast Wide Net in Management Search

The Canucks are leaving no stone unturned in their search for new leadership, with a long and evolving list of candidates being linked to the organization. One notable name that may not be in play is Brad Treliving, who reportedly isn’t interested in the role.

David Pagnotta reported, “I believe the Canucks had internally some interest in talking to former Leafs GM Brad Treliving, but I don’t believe that’s a spot that he’s interested in going.”

McDavid Called the Oilers “Average”

Analysts are dissecting the comments from Connor McDavid, who said the Oilers were an average team with high expectations. He noted, “We were an average team all year. When you’re an average team with high expectations, you’re going to be disappointed.”

Seemingly unafraid to put out a message he knew would be talked about, McDavid is now making people wonder how unhappy he is with management and the way the team was constructed.

The Oilers will need to take a long look at the team this summer and reevaluate the steps backward they took this past season. That could lead to big change.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Lightning, Maple Leafs & Ducks